Heritage & Protected Trees: Houston vs La Porte
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Houston, TX and La Porte, TX?
La Porte has fewer restrictions than Houston.
Houston, TX
Harris County
Houston's Tree Preservation Ordinance (Chapter 33, Art. VI) provides special protection for heritage and significant trees including Live Oak, Pecan, Magnolia, and Bald Cypress. Unauthorized removal carries fines of $90 per diameter inch plus daily penalties of up to $500.
View full Houston rules →La Porte, TX
Harris County
Harris County maintains a voluntary Tree Registry through the Houston Area Urban Forestry Council recognizing exceptional native trees. The registry provides no legal protection — it is purely honorary. No county heritage tree ordinance restricts removal on private property.
View full La Porte rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Houston | La Porte |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Houston Code Ch. 33, Art. VI | - |
| Protected Species | Live Oak, Pecan, Magnolia, Bald Cypress | - |
| Destruction Fine | $90 per diameter inch | - |
| Daily Fine | Up to $500 per day for continuing violations | - |
| Incentives | Credits for preservation against landscaping requirements | - |
| Registry | - | Voluntary — HAUFC Tree Registry |
| Legal Protection | - | None — honorary only |
| Heritage Threshold | - | 24+ inch diameter |
| County Ordinance | - | No heritage tree ordinance |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Houston FAQ
What trees are considered heritage trees in Houston?
Houston's Tree Preservation Ordinance protects Live Oak, Pecan, Magnolia, Bald Cypress, and other significant species. Trees of notable size receive additional protection under Chapter 33, Art. VI.
What is the penalty for removing a heritage tree in Houston?
Unauthorized removal carries a fine of $90 per diameter inch of the trunk, plus potential daily fines of $500 and possible criminal prosecution.
La Porte FAQ
Does Harris County protect heritage trees?
No. The Harris County Tree Registry recognizes exceptional trees but provides no legal protection. Property owners may remove any tree on private property without county approval.
How do I nominate a tree for the registry?
Contact the Houston Area Urban Forestry Council to nominate a tree for the Harris County Tree Registry. They document the largest specimens of native and naturalized species.
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